PITTSBURGH (93.7 The Fan) The Pittsburgh Penguins are making noise on their first day of training camp, as they announced the contract extension of a key blue-liner.
About to enter his second season, John Marino has signed a six-year extension worth $4.4 million per year.
"We are very fortunate to have a young, skilled defenseman like John in our organization," general manager Jim Rutherford said. "His rookie season proved he is a top-four defenseman with great hockey sense. We were impressed with his strong defensive play and look forward to watching him develop offensively. "
Marino had a standout rookie season with the Penguins, playing in 56 games racking up six goals and 20 assists for 26 points.
Despite missing time with a facial bone fractures, Marino still received votes for the NHL’s Calder Trophy as the league’s rookie of the year.
Marino’s rookie season was among the best ever from a Penguins rookie defenseman, and the team is excited to watch his game grow over the next six years in black and gold.